Explore a range of net zero training at our Renewable Technology Centre
We offer a range of courses that cover topics such as renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, and carbon management. Our instructors are experts in their fields, and provide hands-on training and practical experience to ensure that our students are fully equipped to succeed in this growing industry.
Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to build a rewarding and fulfilling career.
By enrolling on our net zero courses, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to build a rewarding and fulfilling career. We offer courses in Awareness in Environmental Technologies, Solar Thermal, Solar PV, Heat Pumps, EV Charger Installation, Carbon Literacy, Domestic Ventilation, and a range of retrofit training plus many more.
For more information please email netzerohub@abingdon-witney.ac.uk or call us on 01235 541107.
What We Offer
Training for Plumbers: WRAS Water Regulations | Heat Pump Systems Installation (MCS Recognised) | Domestic Ventilation Systems | Low Temperature Hot Water Heating Systems | Unvented Hot Water Initial and Reassessment
Training for Electricians: Domestic Ventilation Systems | Domestic Solar Photovoltaic Systems | Electrical Energy Storage Systems | Domestic, Commercial and Industrial EV Charging Equipment Installation | Initial and Periodic Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations | Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Route Qualification | 18th Edition Wiring Regulations
Retrofit Training: Certificate in Retrofit | Airtightness and Weather Sealing Workshop
Sustainability Training: Airtightness and Weather Sealing Workshop | Carbon Literacy Training | Environmental Awareness | Introduction to Air Source Heat Pumps, Solar PV and Solar Thermal
Staff Profile: Craig Mays
Craig is a highly skilled electrical professional with nearly two decades of experience across domestic, commercial, and industrial environments. He started in property maintenance and quickly advanced to supervisory roles on large social housing and refurbishment projects, developing strong fault-finding skills and a solid foundation in electrical installations.
Craig has worked as a qualified supervisor managing compliance and overseeing a variety of installations including factory and hotel maintenance, new housing developments, and renewable energy systems. His roles have required close collaboration with contractors and precise management of complex projects.
Currently, Craig works as an Electrical Tutor, supporting apprentices with their NVQ portfolios and maintaining high training and assessment standards. His dedication to quality, mentorship, and ongoing professional growth makes him a valued member of both the electrical sector and vocational education.
"My experience across different electrical settings has taught me the importance of attention to detail and strong teamwork. As a tutor, I’m committed to helping apprentices develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in this dynamic industry."
Staff Profile: David Matthews
David began his career as a mechanical engineer working in the automotive sector before spending six years in Africa. There, he managed township school construction sites and studied renewable energy. Returning to the UK in 2000, he ran a business focused on renewable energy supply, design, and installation.
His projects include installing PV systems on the Big Brother house and serving as commissioning engineer for Renewable Energy House in Brussels. David has held leadership roles as CEO of the Solar Trade and GSHP associations and later the IDHEE. He developed government-backed heat pump courses and chaired MCS during novation. After five years as a secondary school maths teacher, he became a renewable heating college lecturer in 2024.
"My career has combined engineering, teaching, and leadership in renewable energy. I’m passionate about sharing knowledge and skills that help build a sustainable future while supporting learners to succeed in this growing sector."
Staff Profile: Lee Wright
Lee is a construction and education professional with over 25 years of experience in carpentry, joinery, site management, and vocational teaching. He began his career in hands-on craftsmanship and project management, leading a variety of building projects including residential and commercial works.
In the last decade, Lee shifted into education, serving as a lecturer, course manager, and curriculum leader. He has played a key role in designing and delivering construction qualifications such as NVQs, Diplomas, and BTEC programmes. His teaching combines practical knowledge with personal development to prepare learners for careers in construction.
Lee’s strong industry experience and dedication to education help him connect theory with real-world practice, ensuring learners are ready for the construction sector’s challenges.
"My background in construction shapes how I teach. I focus on blending practical skills with personal growth to help learners succeed in this demanding industry. It’s rewarding to support people as they build their careers in construction."
Staff Profile: Nyomi Rowsell
Nyomi Rowsell brings a strong background in sustainable architecture and environmental innovation to the Net Zero Skills Hub. She earned her MArchD at Oxford Brookes University, specialising in climate-resilient design using strategies such as water harvesting and natural, climate-responsive materials to address extreme temperatures.
Nyomi began her career in Malawi, working as a rammed earth architect and founding ICCM (International Conservation and Clean-up Management), a social enterprise focused on environmental education and waste management solutions. This work sparked her deep commitment to resource efficiency and circular design.
In the UK, Nyomi worked as a waste management project officer with Surrey Environment Partnership and later as a consultant at Buro Happold, developing waste systems for global infrastructure projects. Her career blends sustainability, design, and education, driven by a passion for inspiring younger generations to create a more sustainable future.
"Never give up on a hill, always focus on the larger vision. I believe design shapes culture, culture shapes values, and values determine the future. My goal is to empower learners to understand this connection and become agents of positive change."
Staff Profile: Salma Mohamed
Salma is the Delivery Manager for the Net Zero Skills Hub, where she leads the coordination and delivery of innovative projects that equip individuals and business with the skills needed for a low-carbon future. She works closely with employers and learners to ensure the Hub drives meaningful impact across the region.
She holds a master's degree in International Relations, combining strong analytical expertise with an international outlook. Her career spans policy research, education and sustainability. She has delivered policy analysis, environmental reporting frameworks, and programme management, while building strong relationships with stakeholder ranging from local organisations to International NGOs.
“Empowering people to build meaningful careers that also contribute to a sustainable future is what drives me. Real impact happens when professional growth and social responsibility go hand in hand - whether that’s helping people develop green skills or supporting causes that protect our communities and the planet.”
Staff Profile: Steve Butcher
Steve brings a wealth of industry and teaching experience to his role, combining over two decades in the electrical sector with five years of teaching Electrical learners. He founded Selectrix in 2006, successfully delivering a wide range of projects - from domestic installations to complex industrial, commercial, and agricultural works - demonstrating strong skills in design, project management, and commissioning.
Starting his career as an apprentice at MESL Group Ltd. in 1999, Steve worked his way up to JIB Approved Electrician, leading teams and high-level projects. Today, he draws on that journey to inspire and guide the next generation of electricians.
"I started as an apprentice myself, so I know how powerful good guidance and hands-on experience can be. I’ve worked on everything from small domestic jobs to major industrial projects, and now I’m passionate about passing that knowledge on to help shape confident, capable electricians for the future."
Staff Profile: Will Gibbs
Will currently manages the team and provision within the Net Zero Skills Hub area, Electrical, Plumbing Renewables and Construction Management apprenticeship provision at the Abingdon campus.
His career began as an electrician, giving him a strong practical foundation before moving into education and training. Will brings extensive experience in vocational education and skills development, having previously worked as an electrical lecturer, course manager, and head of department at several colleges, where he led curriculum design and delivery for technical and construction disciplines. He holds a Master’s degree in Education Leadership and Management, equipping him with expertise in strategic planning and educational innovation. Will has authored apprenticeship learning books for a leading publisher, supporting learners and employers with high-quality training resources. In addition, he has worked with City & Guilds on writing examination content and moderating assessments, ensuring rigorous standards and industry relevance.
“My aim is to empower the next generation of skilled professionals to lead the transition to sustainable construction. By combining practical expertise with innovative training solutions, I want to help build a workforce that is ready to meet the challenges of achieving net zero.”
The Launch of our Net Zero Skills Hub
In October 2023, Abingdon & Witney College opened their new Net Zero Skills Hub, with a launch event at their Abingdon campus. Attended by over 60 employers and stakeholders including those from the construction, building, building services and sustainability industries, the event was an exciting opportunity to view the new training centre and to hear from experts about the importance of training for solving the climate emergency.
“One of the strengths of further education colleges is the work that they do to support adults to gain the very latest skills training, whether this is to develop an existing career or to start a new one.
The Net Zero Skills Hub is a modern, vibrant training environment for adults with the very latest technology and equipment. Our trainers are experts in their field, recently from industry, who are passionate about passing on their skills and making a real difference.
We are very proud of the investment that the college has made in this important sector and are very much looking forward to our first courses starting.”
- Jacqui Canton, Principal and CEO of Abingdon & Witney College
